Oriini Kaipara, a proud Māori woman and groundbreaking TV presenter, is making headlines for all the right reasons—not just for her role on primetime New Zealand television, but for the bold way she responded to online criticism of her traditional facial tattoo.
At 41 years old, Oriini made history as the first primetime news anchor in the world to wear a moko kauae—a traditional Māori chin tattoo worn by women to signify heritage, leadership, and identity.
But not everyone was ready to celebrate her milestone.
When Culture Meets Cruelty
Oriini reads the news on Newshub, one of New Zealand’s top networks. While many viewers admire her courage and cultural pride, she received a jarring message from a viewer named “David,” who wrote:
“We strongly oppose the use of a Māori newsreader with a moku [sic] that looks offensive and aggressive. It’s not a good look. Additionally, she speaks in the Māori language, which we don’t understand. Please stop it immediately.”
Rather than ignore the message, Oriini chose to respond—and she did so with grace, intelligence, and strength.
“Today I Had Enough”: Oriini’s Epic Response
In a story she posted on Instagram, Oriini shared a screenshot of the message and wrote:
“Today was the day I had enough. I finally responded, which is something I never do… I went against my own principles and clicked the send button.”
In her email response, Oriini corrected the spelling of moko and calmly pointed out that there was no violation of any broadcast standards.
“Your complaints appear to be based purely on your own bias and personal preference about how people should look on screen,” she wrote.
“Moko and people with them should not be subjected to discrimination, harassment, or prejudice. We have no intention to cause harm or ill will, and I do not deserve to be treated with such disrespect.”
And her mic-drop moment?
“Please stop your complaints and try to decolonize your mindset as if you were still living in the 1800s.”
Moko Kauae: A Sacred Symbol of Identity
For those unfamiliar, moko kauae is a traditional tattoo worn on the chin and lips by Māori women. It’s more than art—it’s a spiritual and genealogical marker, representing ancestral lineage, leadership, social status, and personal achievement.
Oriini’s moko tells a story of resilience, cultural pride, and generational strength. And by wearing it proudly on a national platform, she’s giving others—especially Māori youth—permission to be fully themselves.
Representation Matters
Despite the negativity, Oriini said most feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Still, she believes moments like this highlight the importance of visibility.
“If my existence on screen triggers some people, that only proves why we need more Māori representation across all sectors,” she told the New Zealand Herald.
Her story has since gone viral, with thousands applauding her empowering stance and unwavering pride in her identity.
Final Thoughts
Oriini Kaipara isn’t just delivering the news—she’s rewriting the narrative for indigenous representation in mainstream media. Her response to online hate was not just for her, but for every person who’s ever felt unseen or misunderstood.
More power to you, Oriini.
What do you think about Oriini’s response and her beautiful moko kauae? Tell us in the comments!
The post TV Presenter With Māori Face Tattoo Responds To Online Trolls With Powerful Message appeared first on Auxx Me.
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